Core Viewpoint - The recent surge in express delivery fees in Guangdong has significantly impacted e-commerce businesses, leading to increased operational costs and potential losses for sellers [1][3][10]. Group 1: Price Increase and Its Impact - Express delivery fees in Guangdong have increased by 0.4 to 0.7 yuan per package overnight, causing significant financial strain on e-commerce sellers who rely on high volumes of shipments [1][3]. - The average delivery price in Guangdong has risen from 1.0 yuan to 1.4 yuan, with some areas experiencing increases of up to 40% [3][5]. - The price hike is a response to regulatory measures aimed at curbing "internal competition" and ensuring that delivery prices do not fall below cost [3][5]. Group 2: Historical Context and Industry Dynamics - The express delivery industry has been in a price war for over a decade, with average delivery prices dropping from 28.55 yuan in 2007 to 7.49 yuan by mid-2025 [5][7]. - Major express companies have seen significant declines in revenue per package since their initial public offerings, with declines of 38% to 43% reported by various firms [5][7]. - The current situation reflects a long-standing trend of aggressive price competition that has led to unsustainable business practices within the industry [5][12]. Group 3: Future Outlook and Industry Restructuring - The price increase may provide an opportunity for the industry to recover, with projections indicating that a 0.1 yuan increase per package could significantly boost net profits for major companies [8][12]. - The industry is expected to undergo a restructuring phase, where larger companies may consolidate market share while smaller firms either get absorbed or focus on niche markets [12]. - Regulatory changes and incentives for improved service quality are anticipated to drive a shift from price-based competition to service-based competition in the express delivery sector [12][13]. Group 4: Consumer Behavior and Market Response - E-commerce sellers are adjusting their pricing strategies in response to increased delivery costs, often passing these costs onto consumers [10][11]. - There is a noticeable change in consumer expectations regarding service quality, with customers beginning to accept higher prices for better service [13]. - The overall market sentiment indicates a growing acceptance of price increases as a necessary adjustment for improved service standards in the express delivery industry [13].